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22 Status Symbols Through the Ages

How does one know when they've "made it" in life? Sure, joy, passion, and happy relationships are good, but what about stuff? What gadgets do we consider status symbols? Appliance company De'Longhi recently conducted a study on the topic, asking over 4,000 British consumers about what is considered a status symbol today, and also over the past several decades. Click through to take a look back at the technology that used to make us swoon. Times certainly have changed!

Today

What was voted the number one status symbol for 2012? A hot tub! Also on the list: a walk-in closet, side-by-side refrigerator-freezer (or "U.S.-style fridge"), and a stereo system with speakers in every room.

The '90s

Black dining room table & chairs

Bread maker: Before the low-carb craze took hold in the early 2000s, making bread at home was seen as a treat.

Beige carpet

The '80s

Commodore 64 computer: Introduced in 1982 for $595, the Commodore 64 is still the best-selling personal computer model of all time. It also made Time magazine's list of "All-TIME 100 Gadgets."

Avocado-colored bathroom

Garbage disposal

Microwave

The '70s

Fondue set

Betamax: Introduced in 1975, this rival to the VHS system eventually lost in the format war between the two, mostly because VHS tapes were able to squeeze in the most recording time.

Color TV

Mini-bar

The '60s

Washing machine: After World War II, many US manufacturers introduced competing automatic washing machine models. By the 1960s, prices had become more affordable for consumers.

Sewing machine

Colorful kitchen cabinets

Electric carving knife

The '50s

Transistor radio: Popular because of their portability, transistor radios allowed people to listen to music anywhere they went.